Bleacher Report - Articles by Jordan Corso

Arizona State-Washington: Jordan Picks Feb. 26/09 NCAA Hoops Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 16:44:10 -0500

Game Line: ASU + 1

ASU heads up to Washington for the Pac-10 conference game that may decide who finishes in first place.

ASU is firing on all cylinders. Their zone matchups are impenetrable, their offense is fluent and efficient, and with Blake Griffin out, the Sun Devils now have the best player in the country in James Harden.

In the beginning of the season, I was not sold on the Sun Devils. They were winning games, but it was hard for me to believe that they could be a top 10 team in the country.

I believed that if Arizona State made it to the tournament, their lack of size in the frontcourt would inevitably cost them.

Jeff Pendergraph has turned into an amazing defensive player. He holds his place in the zone very well, not to mention he is 6'11", 260 lbs.

PG Derek Glasser reminds me a lot of one of those throwback guards in the '80s. He runs the team smoothly and has a high assist to turnover ratio. He is the guy that makes big plays down the stretch for the Devils when they need it most, not Harden.

Glasser may turn into the next John Stockton if Harden stays one more year.

Arizona State had a lot of problems when they played Washington at home. Washington had a huge scoring burst that ASU couldn't keep up with, and the Huskies ended up getting the best of the Sun Devils.

ASU had an off weekend, losing to both Washington schools. My hunch is that ASU finishes the 2009 season perfect.

Quincy Pondexter and Jon Brockman will be difficult to stay with for the Devils. I believe Harden will match up on Pondexter, and Pendergraph will match up on Brockman within ASU's zone defense.

ASU swept UCLA playing zone, and my hunch is they find a way to win this game as well.

The Pick: ASU Moneyline

Arizona-Washington State: Jordan Picks Feb. 26/09 NCAA Hoops Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 15:38:31 -0500

Arizona (18-9) at Washington State (14-13)

Game Time: 9:00 PM ET

Game Line: Arizona + 2

The Arizona Wildcats head to Wazzu country to take on the Washington State Cougars in what should be an entertaining game to watch.

Arizona has been all over the map this year. They started off looking like one of the weaker teams in the conference, which was difficult to understand with all the talent the team possesses.

Arizona started off 2-5 in conference play. Since that mark they are now 8-6. Arizona went on a seven-game winning streak in conference play that was snapped in their last game, where Arizona State beat them by one point.

Arizona played very well versus Arizona State. They were down by 14 points in the second half and made a run to take the lead at one point with nearly two minutes left in the game.

To start their winning streak, the Wildcats were down by 10 points with one minute left versus Houston. They came back and won the game in overtime.

Arizona is the type of team that can score 12 points in 30 seconds. They are freakishly athletic. G Chase Budinger appears to be jumping out of the gym on most nights. C Jordan Hill blocks everything that’s weak inside. PG Nic Wise is always the quickest player on the court, no matter who the Wildcats play.

This Arizona team is loaded, and good enough to play in the NCAA tournament.

Washington State is 6-9 in conference play and coming off an impressive win at UCLA, a game where no one gave them a chance to win.

Taylor Rochestie had 33 points in the victory. Rochestie is from Santa Barbara, CA, and his father purchased 30 seats at Pauley Pavilion for the UCLA game. Rochestie and C Aron Baynes have their parents traveling with the team for the end of their senior season.

They are both playing like it’s the last games they will ever play, and the Cougars suddenly appear to be an inspired team on a mission. The only way they could make the NCAA tournament is if they win the Pac-10 conference tournament. My hunch is, they find a way to get it done.

the pick: Washington State - 2

Kentucky-USC: Jordan Quick Picks 2/25/09 NCAA Hoops Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:36:20 -0500

Game Time: 7:00 p.m. ET

Game Line: South Carolina - 2

Kentucky is coming off a monster win over Tennessee, and Jodie Meeks hasn’t slowed up a bit.

Kentucky is tied for second place with South Carolina and desperately needs this road win.

My hunch is Jodie Meeks plays inspired and scores 30-plus points.

Having Patrick Patterson in the lineup will certainly help the Wildcats on the offensive glass. Look for Patterson to have a big game as well.

The Pick: Kentucky Moneyline

Texas-Texas Tech: Jordan's Quick Picks—Feb. 24, 2009

Jordan Corso — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:17:29 -0500

Game Time: 10:30 PM EST

Texas Tech heads to Texas to take on the Longhorns. The Red Raiders will be without their head coach Pat Knight, who has been suspended for the game because of misconduct toward an official.

Texas beat Oklahoma at home in their last game, and should take care of business easily vs. a weak Texas Tech team. Look for AJ Abrams to tear it up again from behind the arc en route to a Texas Tech massacre.

The Pick: Texas - 13

Kansas St.-Missouri: Jordan Quick Picks—Feb. 24, 2009

Jordan Corso — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 18:12:17 -0500

Game Time: 10:00 PM EST

Game Line: Missouri - 6

I like the Kansas State moneyline in this game. The Wildcats have won their last two after a devastating loss to Kansas at home. Kansas St. guard Denis Clemente is unbelievable with the ball in his hand.

Missouri’s guards are weak, and Clemente will make big plays. He will win this game for the Wildcats. Kansas State is in a must-win situation, and can’t afford to lose this one. They already beat Missouri at home by 16 earlier this year.

The Pick: Kansas State Moneyline

Duke-Maryland: Jordan Quick Picks 2/24/09 NCAA Hoops Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 17:00:04 -0500

Game Time: 8:30 PM ET
Game Line: Maryland + 5

Duke is 4–4 on the road this year. They have only won four of their last eight games, and they remain ranked in the top 10.

The Blue Devils are nearly unbeatable at Cameron with their fans backing them, but are vulnerable when traveling on the road.

They are weak in court production and offensive rebounding.

They are very weak at point guard.

Maryland G Grievis Vasquez is playing on another planet right now. He led the Turtles over UNC, and I think he does it again versus Duke.

The Pick: Maryland ML

Iowa-Michigan State: Jordan Quick Picks Feb. 24/09 NCAA Hoops Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:53:09 -0500

Game Time: 8:30 PM ET

Game Line: MSU -16

The Spartans destroyed Iowa the last time these two met in Iowa City. The Spartans will continue to not show any mercy for the Hawkeyes.

Raymar Morgan is back in the lineup and back to healthy form.

Kalin Lucas and Durrell Summers offer the best backcourt tandem in the Big Ten. Iowa will have no answer for the quickness of Sparty.

The Pick: MSU -16

Villanova-DePaul: Jordan Quick Picks Feb. 24/09 NCAA Hoops Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:50:54 -0500

Game Time: 7:00 PM ET

Game Line: Nova -13

DePaul is 0-14 in the Big East conference this year. Nova is 10-4. Nova is a strong team that has won nine of their last 11 games. There is no way Villanova can blow this game.

Scottie Reynolds is shooting lights out from three, and Nova is looking to play well heading into the NCAA tourney. Look for the Wildcats to go on a big scoring run and never look back.

The Pick: Nova -13

Clemson–Va Tech: Jordan Quick Picks Feb. 24/09 NCAA Hoops Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:42:39 -0500

Game Time: 7:00 PM ET

Game Line: Va Tech +10

Virginia Tech hasn’t played to their potential. They have lost their last three games. This is a good team, and Hokies G Malcolm Delaney is one of the best in the nation. Virginia Tech had a huge upset over undefeated Wake Forest earlier in the year.

My hunch is Delaney carries the Hokies through this game and drops 30-plus on the Tigers.

The Pick: Virginia Tech ML

UCONN–Marquette: Jordan Picks 2/25/09 College Basketball Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:11:40 -0500

Game Time: 7:00 PM ET

Game Line: Marquette ML

Jerel McNeal and Dominic James are leading the Golden Eagles on their home floor against UConn. Everyone treats UConn as their must-win game of the year, and the Huskies are coming off a loss to Pitt, and an easy win over South Florida.

Marquette is playing as good as anyone in the country right now. Their guards can score from anywhere on the floor and shoot from as deep as you can imagine.

For the rest of this free pick, visit www.cbbplace.com.

Rutgers – Notre Dame: Jordan Quick Picks 2/24/09 NCAA Hoops Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 23:04:59 -0500

Game Time: 10:30 PM ET

Game Line: Notre Dame – 9

Luke Harangody is averaging 24 points per game, and 12 rebounds per game. Notre Dame is in must-win mode. The Irish looked as impressive as I have seen them all season scoring 104 points in route to beating Providence.

Rutgers is at the bottom of the Big East. Notre Dame should be able to run away with this one as they are playing for so much right now.

The Pick: Notre Dame - 9

Iowa State - Baylor: Jordan Quick Picks 2/23/09 NCAA Hoops Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:44:02 -0500

Game Time: 9:00 PM ET
Game Line: Iowa State - 3

Baylor has been somewhat disappointing this season after having such a good late season run last year. The Bears have five players in double figures and are scoring 80 points a game. However, they are 2–5 on the road this year, and Iowa State has been descent at home going 11–6.

I think Iowa State’s underrated F Craig Brackins has a huge game versus a team like Baylor that plays no defense. Brackens scored 42 points versus Kansas, and 38 versus Houston this season. Have you heard of him?

The Pick:
Iowa State - 3

Pitt at Providence: Jordan's Quick Picks

Jordan Corso — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:35:11 -0500

Pitt (25-2) at Pittsburgh (16-11)

Game Time: Tuesday, Feb. 24, 7:00 PM ET

Game Line: Pitt - 14

Pitt has won nine of it is last 10 and has killed inferior talent on the road all year.

There is no reason why Pitt should not destroy a Providence team that just lost by double digits to Notre Dame at home.

Providence is clearly not playing with the sense of urgency they need to.

DeJuan Blair is going to have a field day inside on the Friars. Pitt will stream roll past the spread.

The Pick: Pitt – 14

Florida – LSU: Jordan Quick Picks NCAA Hoops Against The Spread

Jordan Corso — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 22:23:32 -0500

Game Time: 7:00 PM ET

Game Line: LSU - 6

The Gators have lose their last three road games at Georgia, at Kentucky, and at Tennessee.

The Gators are 3 – 5 on the road this season.

LSU is the best team in the SEC and LSU G Marcus Thornton has played dominating basketball.

LSU F Tasin Mitchell has been just as impressive as Thornton in the frontcourt.

LSU is clearly a very balanced team.

My hunch is that Florida G Nick Calathes gets rattled yet again on the road and Florida becomes the topic of conversation for teams on the bubble.

The Pick: LSU - 6

Jordan's College Basketball Quick Picks Against the Spread: Feb. 23

Jordan Corso — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 16:12:43 -0500

Monday Feb. 24, 2009 Quick Picks

Georgetown + 2 over Louisville

The Hoyas have never been so desperate for a win. Louisville is capable of losing to inferior talent on the road. Last time they played on the road in a bracket buster situation, Notre Dame stomped them by 30-plus points.

Oklahoma - 2.5 over Kansas

Two losses in a row for the Sooners is a longshot, with or without Blake Griffin in the lineup. Oklahoma proved that without some fluke three point shooting from A.J. Abrams, that they can win without Blake Griffin. Willy Warren may be the best freshman in the country.

Other notables

Western Carolina +3.5

Murray state -2

College of Charleston +2.5

Syracuse-St. John's: The Traveling Orangemen Still Aren't Packing Defense

Jordan Corso — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 15:21:36 -0500

Syracuse (19-8) vs. St. John’s (13-14)

Game time: 7:30 PM ET

Game line: St. John’s +5

The Red Storm of St. John's host Syracuse in Queens, NY in what will be another let down for the Orangemen. Syracuse has only won three games out of seven on the road and are 2–7 against the spread.

The Red Storm are led by a very talented fleet of perimeter players that will cause mismatches all over the floor for Syracuse.

Red Storm G/F Anthony Mason Jr. is 6’7", and has a very lengthy wingspan. He is averaging 14 points a game. G/F D.J. Kennedy is 6’6" and is averaging 13 per game. These two can shoot the three with finesse, or finish strong above the rim.

The Red Storm are coming off two impressive home games. They lost to Duke by seven points in which they were 12-point underdogs, and they beat Seton Hall by five where the line was even.

When I look at this matchup, I can’t help but think about Syracuse's road game at Providence. St. John’s has emerged into a better team than Providence down the stretch, and my hunch is that Syracuse comes in a little overconfident.

Syracuse has played embarrassing basketball over their last 10 games and for some reason has been ranked through all of them. Are the polls that biased to keep Syracuse in the Top 25 when they have won only three of their last 10 games?

As of Monday, Syracuse is finally out of the polls and should stay out after they lose their next two games to St. John’s and Cinci. The Orangemen are a team that has been unable to put two solid halves together, and they play very poor defense.

Syracuse gave up a number of easy layups to Villanova in their last home game. In a must–win scenario, they played terrible defense down the stretch to hand the game to the Wildcats.

Jonny Flynn has excellent vision, and may be the best point guard in the Big East. Outside of Flynn, the team just isn’t very good. Eric Devendorf lacks lateral quickness in their zone, and Paul Harris has looked lost on the floor.

The problem for Syracuse is not with their offense. They can score plenty of points in a hurry. Their problem is with their terrible defense. They give up way too many easy baskets. They are allowing 72 points a game on average, with that being close to 80 points in Big East play.

Look for the Red Storm to get to the rim all night long. Syracuse will once again try to run and gun on the road, and my hunch is that they blow it again.

The Pick: St. John's Moneyline

Arizona-Arizona State: College Basketball Feb. 22, 2009 Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 02:07:14 -0500

Arizona (18 – 8) at Arizona State (20 – 5)
Game Time: 10:00 PM ET
Game Line: ASU - 7.5

The Wildcats are glad to get out of Tucson and get a taste of the real life up in Tempe, Arizona. U of A will be welcomed with plenty of hostility for the biggest rivalry of the PAC 10, and the second dual of the desert this year.

ASU was clearly a better team the first time these two met in Tucson, and ASU has only gotten better since.

I am going to be straight with everyone on this pick. You will not hear one analyst take ASU to cover this spread.

The Wildcats have won their last seven games in excitable fashion, and look like they are back to old form. They have been perfect against the spread during their winning streak as well. The question is are they worthy of the hype?

The Wildcats have Chase Budinger, a prolific athlete who can score from anywhere on the floor. They have Nic Wise, who has improved his play tremendously and is distributing the ball with a high assist to turnover ratio.

They even have Jordan Hill, a monster in the post that is averaging a double-double and is leading the PAC 10 in blocked shots.

The question is, is there anyone else on this team that can contribute?

The answer is no!

Over the seven game winning streak, the star “three” have contributed over 90 percent of the teams total points. In all seven wins, at least one of these players has scored 20+ points in a game.

ASU is deep and talented. They will wear down Arizona with their deep bench, just like they did the first time these two met.

ASU plays a tremendous zone defense, and they match up with Arizona as well as anyone. The first time these two played was on Arizona’s home court, and ASU beat them 53 – 47 in a very hostile environment.

That game was also Arizona’s last loss since the seven game winning streak.

For the Sundevils, they get the luxury of playing Arizona on their home court this time around. The Sundevils have been amazing on at home this year.

In ASU’s last game, they were a seven point favorite against USC, and no analyst expected ASU to cover verse a team like the Trojans, who were in a must-win situation. ASU ending up beating a talented USC team by 12, and the Trojans put everything on the line.

ASU has matured over the season into a balanced, and brilliant team. Much of the credit can go to head coach Herb Sendek. Sendek has brought a high basketball IQ to the Devils.

He has taught James Harden, arguably the nations best player to be smart, and to play under control. He has developed ASU’s young guards into playing extremely smart, and hard - nosed on defense.

Sendek has brought a defense—first mentality that ASU plays with for 40 minutes.

I expect ASU to come out and cover a 7.5 point spread and stick it to the Wildcats, ending their winning streak. ASU is a much better team and is nearly unbeatable at home. They have won and covered against the spread in their last four games.

The Pick: ASU - 7.5

Pepperdine-GU: College Basketball Feb. 21, 2009 Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:58:08 -0500

Pepperdine (8 – 19) at Gonzaga (20 – 5)

Game Time: 11:30 PM

Game Line: Gonzaga - 30

The Pepperdine Waves head up to Spokane, Washington to take on the Zags. This game shapes up to be a massive one–sided affair. Pepperdine lost their last game against Portland by 29 points, and Gonzaga won their last game against LMU by 37 points.

Gonzaga is way too talented to play in the WCC and I have been saying this for the last five years of my life.

The Zags are loaded at every position and are good enough to make a final four run. When a team like Pepperdine rolls in to face them, it just isn’t fair for the Waves.

Pepperdine has absolutely no chance of keeping this game close and are going to get demolished by half time.

I would compare this game to an NBDL team going into Boston to take on the Celtics. It is predictable, and one-sided.

Gonzaga has been ridiculous this year. They are a dominating force at home with Josh Heytvelt and Austin Daye in the frontcourt. They are loaded at the guard position with Steven Gray, Jeremy Pago, and Matt Bouldin. They have a deep and talented bench and play defense as well as anyone in the country.

Look for Gonzaga to win this game by at least 30 points.

The Pick: Gonzaga

Santa Clara-USF: College Basketball Feb. 21, 2009 Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:56:19 -0500

Santa Clara (14 – 14) at San Francisco (9 – 17)
Game Time: 10:00 PM
Game Line: Santa Clara - 4

Santa Clara heads to San Francisco to take on the Dons in what should be a fairly close game.

Santa Clara has a strong frontcourt player by the name of John Bryant. The offense is very old school and reminds me a lot of the Lakers in the '70s.

Bryant is 6’10", 305 lbs. and is a dominant force inside. Santa Clara moves the ball through Bryant on offense much like the Lakers did with Kareem.

Santa Clara’s problem is their depth. They have two solid guards as well in Kevin Foster and James Rahon. Outside of Bryant, Foster, and Rahon, they have no one who can contribute reliably.

For San Francisco, the Don’s have lost four games straight. However, what I find interesting is that they played Portland and Gonzaga very close, and they have covered the spread in their last two games.

The Dons have a player that arguably is the best forward in the conference in Dior Lowhorn. Lowhorn is averaging 20 points and seven rebounds per contest.

Lowhorn has been a tremendous matchup problem in the WCC this year. Don’s G Manny Quezada has also been a solid contributor.

I believe that Lowhorn has the quickness to stay in front of Santa Clara’s center John Bryant and dominate this game. Santa Clara has been far from impressive in their last five games, going 0 – 5 against the spread. San Francisco should be able to pick up the win.

The Pick: San Francisco ML

LMU-Portland: College Basketball Feb. 21, 2009 Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:54:10 -0500

Loyola Marymount (2 – 25) at Portland (17 – 9)
Game Time: 10:00 PM ET
Game Line: Portland - 19

LMU is one of the worst teams in WCC conference history and is coming off the worst loss in conference history. LMU took the trip to Washington to take on Gonzaga. The lines were slammed 91 – 54.

Somehow, the Lions have two players who are averaging double digits. The way their season has been going though, most of those points must come against second and third units.

I watched the first half of the Gonzaga – LMU game and was laughing at how bad it was. LMU has no business playing basketball this season. They are the definition of a “cupcake.”

They show up at opposing gyms and let the other teams crush them from start to finish. Talk about demoralizing.

Portland, on the other hand, is a really strong team. Led by PG Nik Raivio, the Pilots have played very well this season.

The Pilots are coming off a 29-point win over Pepperdine. I think that with the way the Pilots have been playing, and the way the Lions have been playing, this game is going to be out of hand by halftime.

LMU is far too inferior to compete with the Pilots for 20 minutes, let alone 40.

The Pick: Portland

Pacific-San Diego: College Basketball Feb. 21, 2009 Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:51:19 -0500

Pacific (14-10) at San Diego (13-14)

Game Time: 9:00 PM ET

Game Line: USD -1

How did San Diego cover the spread against Saint Mary’s? They suspended their best guard Trumaine Johnson. They were missing their point guard Brandon Johnson, who is out with an injury, and the Gaels are normally lights out at home. The whole game to me seemed strange.

Gyno Pomare was the difference for the Toreros. The senior forward had 25 points and eight rebounds in the close loss to Saint Mary’s. He played exceptionally well on defense and played with a lot of heart.

In a non-conference game, I don’t see how San Diego could get the same level of effort from their players. Avenging a conference rival like Saint Mary’s is one thing, but playing a team like Pacific who they know nothing about and getting motivated is completely different.

This game was scheduled as a bracket buster for San Diego in what was expected to be a breakout year for the Toreros. USD beat UConn in the NCAA tournament last year, and a lot was expected of them this year after returning all 10 contributors.

A lot has changed since then.

This is not a very important game for Pacific either. The Tigers are 14-10 on the year, and if they have any hopes of making it to the NCAA tournament, they will have to win their conference.

In a non-conference matchup with nothing on the line, I think the better team covers the spread. The better team is Pacific.

The Pick: Pacific

Utah State-Saint Mary's: Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:47:57 -0500

Utah State (25-2) at Saint Mary’s (21-5)

Game Time: 5:00 P.M. EST

The Line: Utah State -7

My hunch is this will be one of the most overhyped bracket-buster games of the year. Utah State may be the hottest team in the country, only losing two games all year. The Aggies have four starters scoring in double digits and appear to be on a mission.

Utah State is 12-1 in conference play, and the only slip they had was on the road versus a very good Boise State team. Utah State F Gary Wilkinson has been the guy all year long for the Aggies.

It is tough to pick either one of these teams; the choice would be a lot easier if Patrick Mills was in the lineup for Saint Mary’s. Unfortunately, Saint Mary’s best player will be sitting on the bench watching this game as his team plays in their biggest game of the year.

Saint Mary’s played on Thursday night versus a banged up University of San Diego team and kept it way too close. The game seemed more like a high school game then a college game. Saint Mary’s turned the ball over a ton. They have an overweight center in Omar Samhan that cannot even jump off the ground, and they have no one that can shoot a three-pointer.

With the help from their home crowd, and the play of forward Diamon Simpson, the Gaels were able to pull off the win. Saint Mary’s is not a good team without Mills in the lineup.

The Gaels really need Mills back if they are going to have any hopes of getting in the NCAA tournament. Without him, the Gaels do not deserve an at-large bid.

Utah State should not have any problem beating the Gaels on their home floor. Utah State is loaded with talent, and they play in a much tougher conference than Saint Mary’s.

The Pick: Utah State

Stanford-Oregon: Feb. 21, 2009 College Basketball Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:44:46 -0500

Stanford (15-9) at Oregon (6-20)

Game Time: 8:00 PM ET

The Line: Oregon +10

I find it tough to believe that Stanford has won 15 games this year. After watching the Cardinal lose by 12 at Oregon State on Thursday night, they appear to have dropped down to the level that the Oregon Ducks have been playing at all year.

Stanford is led by G Anthony Goods, who is scoring 16 PPG, and F Lawrence Hill, who is scoring 13 PPG.

The Cardinal have lost six of their last seven Pac-10 games.

Oregon has had a disturbing season. G Tajuan Porter has done everything he can to keep his team in games, but no matter what he does, it is never enough. He scored 33 against Washington, and the Ducks still lost by 19. He scored 19 points on Thursday night versus Cal, and the Ducks lost by 18.

Oregon has lost their last 14 games.

I believe Oregon has two chances to win a Pac-10 game, and this is one of them. The next is their next home game versus Oregon State.

Stanford is playing like they are giving up on their season. The effort level on Thursday night versus Oregon State was pathetic.

I believe Stanford plays the same way versus Oregon, and the Ducks finally cover a spread.

The Pick: Oregon

Washington-USC: Feb. 21, 2009 College Basketball Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:42:20 -0500

Washington (19-7) at USC (16-9)

Game Time: 10:30 PM

The Line: USC +3

This is as big of a game as both the Trojans and the Huskies have had all year. Washington can’t lose two games in a row, and USC has to win out if they have any hope of making the NCAA tournament.

This would be the game for USC to win to improve their RPI, and I am sure the Trojans are going to play with an extreme sense of urgency.

The Huskies are a very good team and are as balanced as any team in the country. Freshman G Isaiah Thomas was able to keep the score close on Thursday night versus UCLA.

Anyone who watched the game knew UCLA was on a mission after dropping two games straight and would not be denied the win.

USC routed Washington State and covered the spread, winning by 10. G Dwight Lewis led the Trojans with 18 points. The Trojans shot 42 percent from the field and 66 percent from three-point land.

I believe this will be as hard fought a game as any on Saturday, and USC somehow, some way will come away with the win.

The Pick: USC ML

California-Oregon State: Feb. 21, 2009 College Basketball Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:40:24 -0500

Cal (20-6) at Oregon State (12-13)

Game Time: 5:00 PM ET

Game Line: Cal -6

The California Golden Bears take the trip to Corvallis after routing the Oregon Ducks with ease. If you have been following my picks, you definitely have heard me talk about Jerome Randle before.

Jerome Randle is a player that may be the best point guard in the country that no one is talking about. Randle is averaging 18 points and five assists. He is dominating against other guards in the Pac-10 and has turned Cal into a serious contender.

California has not slowed up a bit since their impressive non-conference start. They are tied for second place in the conference and only a half game out of first place.

The last time these two teams met, Oregon State was an 18-point underdog, and they beat Cal in Berkeley. I called the money line, and it was easily the Beavers' most impressive win of the year.

Oregon State is coming into this game after a very impressive win over Stanford at home. They are playing extremely well at home, and their fans are showing up and getting loud.

This could be another nightmare for Cal if they don’t take the Beavers seriously. After what the Beavers have accomplished since they last met, I can’t see how Cal wouldn’t prepare.

The Pick: Cal

Washington State-UCLA: Feb. 21, 2009 College Basketball Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:38:13 -0500

Washington State (13-13) at UCLA (20-6)

Game Time: 3:00 PM ET

Game Line: UCLA -12.5

The Washington State Cougars head to UCLA to take on the resurgent Bruins after losing their lunch across town at USC on Thursday night. The USC Trojans desperately needed a win Thursday night, and they were able to get it done.

Washington State can’t compete with the top teams in the Pac-10 this year, and it is really starting to show down the stretch. Head coach Tony Bennett has done everything he can to keep his Cougars fighting, but their talent level is just too inferior after graduating three starters last season.

UCLA looks like they are back and ready to play after their disappointing road trip through Arizona, where they dropped two straight. They dropped Washington by nine in a very impressive manner.

There is no way UCLA blows this game to Washington State. The emergence of Nikola Dragovic has really helped the Bruins on offense and defense. Dragovic has been lethal from three and is really proving to be a force inside.

You already know what the Bruins have with Darren Collison, Josh Shipp, and Jrue Holiday at guard. After losing Kevin Love last year, they have been searching all season long for answers to their problems in the frontcourt. With Nikola Dragovic, I believe their problems are finally solved just in time for the NCAA tournament.

The Pick: UCLA -12.5

VCU-Nevada: Eric Maynor and the Rams Look to Burst Wolf Pack's Bubble

Jordan Corso — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:29:45 -0500

VCU ML Over Nevada: College Basketball Feb. 19, 2009 Against the Spread

VCU (19-8) at Nevada (15-10)

Game Time: 9:00 PM ET

The Line: VCU ML

The Virginia Commonwealth Rams are heading across the country to Nevada to take on the Wolf Pack.

VCU is led by star PG Eric Maynor, who outside of Stephen Curry, is the best guard from a mid-major conference.

Maynor originally committed to Duke until Coach K revoked his scholarship to give it to a last second recruit instead. Maynor was forced to find a school at the last minute, and it happened to be VCU.

The Rams could not have been more thrilled. Maynor is the leading scorer in VCU history and has a victory over Duke in the NCAA tournament as one of the many big accomplishments on his résumé.

VCU is on top in the CAA by one game with two conference games to play. This game is a bracket buster game for Nevada more than it is for VCU. Nevada is trying to prove they are worthy of an invite and will have no shot if they can't take care of business vs. the Rams.

Maynor had 30 points in his last game vs. Delaware, a win for VCU.

Nevada is led by former McDonald's All-American Luke Babbitt. I expected more out of Nevada this season than I've seen so far. They are three games back from Utah State in the WAC, sitting quietly in second place.

Nevada is not a bad team by any means though; Utah State is just having a storybook season en route to the WAC crown. Babbitt is averaging 16 points and seven rebounds and has improved his play as the season has gone on.

It is difficult to lean one way or the other in this game because both of these teams play on opposite sides of the country. Both teams play in different conferences. I would normally give the edge to Nevada because I believe the WAC may be a better conference then the CAA.

However, I think that when you have a player like Eric Maynor leading your team, you have to go with the Rams no matter what. Maynor is a senior who is trying to prove something to the NBA scouts.

Right around tournament time is Maynor's chance to make some serious noise, and I think it starts on Friday night for the star point guard.

I look for VCU to finish the season strong and not only pick up a solid victory over Nevada, but win out as well.

The Pick: VCU ML over Nevada

San Diego-Saint Mary's: College Basketball Feb. 19, 2009 Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:38:30 -0500

San Diego (13 – 13) at Saint Mary’s (20 – 5)
Game Time: 11:00 PM ET

The San Diego Toreros head to Saint Mary’s in what should be a Saint Mary’s victory. San Diego has looked absolutely awful in their past two road games losing to LMU, and Pepperdine.

I had such high hopes for the Toreros this season and they really failed to live up to even mediocre expectations.

The loss of leading scorer Brandon Johnson has really hurt the Toreros and they aren’t sure who to go to when they need a basket. No one has stepped up for this team and it is the reason they have continued to drop games.

For Saint Mary’s, I have been impressed with what they have accomplished without their star guard Patty Mills. Mills is an amazing talent,the floor leader, and go-to player for the Gaels.

At home without Mills, Saint Mary’s was a basketball away from beating Gonzaga. They were able to beat Portland by 12 in their last home game, and have really figured out how to win without Mills.

Much of Saint Mary’s recent success should be pinned on Diamon Simpson. Since Mills has been out of the lineup, Simpson has been scoring 17 points a game, and making clutch baskets every game for Saint Mary’s.

If Saint Mary’s gets Mills back, and receive an invitation to the tournament of 65, they will be even better than they were because other players have had the chance to improve and win games for Saint Mary’s.

The Gaels won’t have to rely on Mills to win games for them anymore when they have the confidence that someone else besides Mills can get it done.

The Pick: Saint Mary’s - 12

Pepperdine-Portland (Feb. 19, 2009): College Basketball Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:35:57 -0500

Pepperdine (8-18) at Portland (16-9)
Game time: 9:00 PM ET

The Pepperdine Waves head to Portland to take on the Pilots. Portland has been the surprise of the WCC this year and has been able to remain near the top all season.

Portland PG Nik Raivio has led the way for the Pilots, averaging 16 points and seven rebounds. He has done everything for the Pilots and has other WCC teams kicking themselves because they didn’t recruit him as heavily as Portland.

Raivio’s older brother Derek was the star PG at Gonzaga. He helped lead the Zags (along with Adam Morrison) to an Elite Eight appearance in 2006.

Portland has been able to consistently beat anyone in the WCC this year, with the exception of Gonzaga.

The Pepperdine Waves have been a disappointment to the WCC. They used to be one of the strongest programs on the west coast, and in the past three years, they have basically dropped off the face of the earth.

Winning eight games on the year is an absolute joke for a team that used to be the most well-respected team in the conference.

The Waves have picked up their play recently after winning their last three games, but at the end of the day, the games were basically scrimmages with ten people in the gym. When Pepperdine plays LMU, Santa Clara, and USD, that is the typical turnout.

There are a hundred times as many people going to see my old high school team play an hour south of Malibu.

The Pick: Portland – 11

LMU-Gonzaga College Basketball Feb. 19, 2009 Against the Spread

Jordan Corso — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 17:32:57 -0500

Loyola Marymount (2 – 24) at Gonzaga (19 – 5)
Game Time: 9:00 PM ET

LMU, the worst team in Division 1 basketball this year, heads to Gonzaga to take on one of the nation’s best.

Gonzaga has slowed up a bit in the WCC after annihilating the competition in the beginning of conference play. In Gonzaga’s last three games, they are 0–3 against the spread.

The Zags were embarrassed by Memphis, played Saint Mary’s way too close without the Gaels star Patty Mills in the lineup, and only beat USF by five after the Dons suspended four players from the team the day before the game.

I am not really sure what direction the Zags are headed in at this point in their season. It is pretty difficult to read this team when they play terrible competition close because at the end of the day, they are still wins for the Zags.

One thing I am sure of is that playing LMU won’t show me anything. The Lions are absolutely terrible. They don’t have the slimmest chance of keeping this game close. Gonzaga should easily double whatever the Lions throw up and will take advantage of the chance to pad their stats.

Josh Heytvelt in the post will dominate this game. LMU has no size on their roster and terrible rebounding has been their demise all season long.

The Pick:
Gonzaga – 24